If you’re reading this blog post while trying to block out the sound of screaming children or the television your significant other refuses to turn down, chances are you are not sheltering in place alone. Not many of us are, and it’s leading to some of us finding our closest relationships being put to the test.
Whether you are at home with your spouse, significant other, children, friend or some other family member, being cooped up all day with nowhere to go can cause stress, anxiety and if you’re not careful, a few choice words that slip out! This can lead to miscommunication, hurt feelings and what feels like all-out war.
Here are some tips that you can use to ease the stress, maintain your sanity, and keep those loving feelings flowing.
Make Time for Alone Time
For many of us, that morning and evening commute, though sometimes stressful in and of itself, is actually much-needed alone time. Now, many of us find ourselves constantly surrounded by others, and there is nowhere to escape to.
Mental health requires a balance between time spent with loved ones and time spent alone. While it may be a bit of a challenge to find time and space for yourself, it’s important to try.
You may want to spend some time in the backyard, in the garage, or even just going for a drive. And make it clear to loved ones, roommates and family members that you expect your boundaries to be respected. Just be sure to respect others’.
Rely on Routines
Humans are creatures of habit, and when our routines take a hit, our moods quickly follow. While you may not be able to follow the exact same routines you did before the pandemic hit, it’s still a good idea to set up a routine that will help you keep your sanity.
This would include what hours you head to bed and get up in the morning as well as planning meals, scheduling alone time, homework time, DIY project time, etc. Routines are the best way to promote a sense of normalcy to an otherwise chaotic and unhinged life.
Try Compassion
We’re all humans trying to get through this very odd and unprecedented time, and we’re all being driven nuts. Try and remember that the next time your kid interrupts your very important conference call or your significant other tells you the same story they have told you now for 8 straight days.
And perhaps most important of all, remember that what does not kill us makes us stronger. This too shall pass and, if you follow these tips, you and your loved one’s relationships can be better for it.